University of California-Berkeley vs American University

Berkeley, CA — Washington, DC

Metric
University of California-Berkeley
Berkeley, CA
American University
Washington, DC
Location Berkeley, CA Washington, DC
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 33,068 7,266
Acceptance Rate 11.0% 62.0%
SAT Average 1,381
In-State Tuition $16,347 $58,771
Out-of-State Tuition $50,547 $58,771
Avg Net Price $13,481 $41,943
Median Debt at Graduation $13,000 $22,750
4-Year Graduation Rate 92.9% 77.0%
Retention Rate 96.8% 88.2%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $74,919 $61,328
Median Earnings (10 yr) $92,446 $77,370
Loan Repayment Rate 641400.0% 219000.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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University of California-Berkeley
Berkeley, CA
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American University
Washington, DC
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of California-Berkeley and American University compare?
University of California-Berkeley (Berkeley, CA) has an acceptance rate of 11.0%, in-state tuition of $16,347, and median 10-year earnings of $92,446. American University (Washington, DC) has an acceptance rate of 62.0%, in-state tuition of $58,771, and median 10-year earnings of $77,370.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of California-Berkeley or American University?
University of California-Berkeley graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $92,446 vs $77,370. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of California-Berkeley or American University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Berkeley is the more affordable option at $13,481 per year versus $41,943.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of California-Berkeley has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 92.9% vs 77.0%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025